Emphasizing cross-regional matters: interpreting the critical risks of cross-regional mega infrastructure projects from an interactional perspective

Purpose This paper interprets critical risks of cross-regional mega infrastructure projects (CMIPs) by analyzing risk interactions, addressing overlooked cross-regional challenges. Design/methodology/approach Firstly, based on the analysis of CMIP system, through a comprehensive literature review and 15 global case studies, 35 CMIP risk factors were identified. Secondly, a panel of experts evaluated risk interactions to construct a risk network. Social network analysis (SNA) was employed for whole network and ego network analysis to reveal the overall CMIP risk landscape and identify 9 critical risk factors and 8 critical risk paths. Finally, risk prevention strategies were proposed. Findings The results indicate that risks with “cross-regional” characteristics were at the center of the network and significantly influenced other risks, thus affecting the evolution of the risk network. Government-led cross-regional multi-layer stakeholders, the difficulty of synergy among local governments across regions, unorganized competition for resources across regions, and unbalanced development of local economies across regions are major challenges faced by CMIP. Originality/value This paper fills the research gap on cross-regional issues in the MIP knowledge. Critical risks identified by exploring risk interactions will help deepen the understanding of CMIP and its risks. The identified risks and devised prevention strategies can improve CMIP stakeholders’ comprehension of cross-regional issues and enhance the effectiveness and accuracy of risk management.